Systems and Methods for Controlling Chlorinators

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for controlling chlorinators for pools and spas are provided. A controller communicates with a processor positioned within a replaceable cell cartridge of a chlorinator, to allow for remote control and diagnosis of the chlorinator and/or cell cartridge. The cell cartridge stores, in non-volatile memory on board the cartridge, one or more parameters associated with the cartridge. The controller can obtain this information from the processor of the cell cartridge, and can use same to configure operation of the chlorinator. Information relating to remaining cell life can be updated by the controller and stored in the non-volatile memory of the cell cartridge. Electrical and software-based mechanisms are provided for ensuring operation of only compatible cell cartridges with the chlorinator. A system for remotely diagnosing errors associated with the chlorinator is also provided.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/889,849 filed on Feb. 6, 2018 (issued as U.S. Pat. No.11,091,924), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/562,128 filed on Jul. 30, 2012 (issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,885,193),which claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/513,316 filed on Jul. 29, 2011, the entire disclosures of which areall expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to equipment for sanitizingbodies of water such as pools and spas. More specifically, the presentdisclosure relates to systems and methods for controlling chlorinators.

Related Art

In the pool and spa field, it is important that water be adequatelysanitized to prevent the growth of microorganisms, algae, etc. Adequatesanitization is important not only to protect the health and safety ofbathers, but to also ensure proper water clarity in a pool or spa. Anumber of sanitization techniques have been implemented to sanitizepool/spa water, such as chemical additives (e.g., chlorine, bromine,etc.), introduction of ozone into pool/spa water, ultravioletsanitization, etc.

Electrolytic cells (or, so-called “salt chlorinators”) represent one wayof sanitizing a pool or spa. In this arrangement, an amount of salt(sodium chloride) is periodically added to pool or spa water (e.g., afew times per year), an electric charge is imparted on the electrolyticcell, and pool or spa water is pumped through the cell. Throughelectrolysis, the salt in the water is converted to free chlorine, whichis subsequently pumped into the pool or spa to sanitize water. Oneadvantage to this approach is a reduction in the amount of chemicalsthat need to periodically be added to pool or spa water, in contrast toconventional chemical chlorination techniques which require frequentaddition of dry or liquid chemicals to the pool/spa (e.g., by way ofpowder, tablets, etc.) in order to sanitize same.

Chlorinators having replaceable cell cartridges are known in the art.However, such systems do not include on-board electronic circuitry(including non-volatile memory) which stores operational and diagnosticinformation relating to the cell cartridge, so that proper operation andmonitoring of the chlorinator can be carried out, e.g., by a controllerin communication with the cell cartridge, or at a remote site (e.g., amanufacturer's facility) to which the cell cartridge can be shipped bythe owner. Moreover, such systems do not include electrical andsoftware-based security mechanisms to ensure usage of only compatiblecartridges with the chlorinator.

Salt chlorinator systems that utilize replaceable chlorinator cartridgescreate a market for “knock-off” cell cartridges. This is primarilybecause a single chlorinator cartridge is designed for a single seasonof use, and therefore must be replaced at the beginning of each season.Knock-off cell cartridges not only have an economic impact, but canoften create unsafe conditions. Specifically, only particularchlorinator cells should be used with specific chlorinator powersupplies/controllers in order to ensure the safety of the system and theusers. Standard connector systems allow knock-off companies to easilydesign cell cartridges to work with various chlorinators.

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for controllingchlorinators, such as electrolytic chlorinators.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to systems and method for controllingchlorinators for pools and spas, such as electrolytic chlorinators. Thesystem includes a controller which communicates with a processorpositioned within a replaceable cell cartridge of a chlorinator, toallow for remote control and diagnosis of the chlorinator and/or cellcartridge. The cell cartridge stores, in non-volatile memory on boardthe cartridge, one or more parameters associated with the cartridge,such as minimum/maximum electrical parameters, cell coating and/or lifeexpectancy, thermal operating parameters, salinity operating parameters,etc. The controller can obtain this information from the processor ofthe cell cartridge, and can use same to configure operation of thechlorinator. Additionally, the processor of the cartridge can transmitoperational status information in response to a request from thecontroller, such as current water temperature, flow rate, pH levels,etc., which information the processor can use to control thechlorinator. Information relating to remaining cell life can be updatedby the controller and stored in the non-volatile memory of the cellcartridge. Electrical and software-based mechanisms are provided forensuring operation of only compatible cell cartridges with thechlorinator. A system for remotely diagnosing errors associated with thechlorinator is also provided.

In one embodiment, a system for controlling a chlorinator is provided.The system includes a chlorinator including a body and a replaceablechlorinator cartridge removably positionable within said body, saidchlorinator cartridge including a processor in electrical communicationwith a plurality of plates of the cartridge; and a controller inelectrical communication with said chlorinator, said controllerincluding a control panel for allowing a user to control operation ofsaid chlorinator, wherein said processor of said chlorinator cartridgecommunicates with said controller to authenticate said replaceablecartridge, said controller prohibiting operation of said chlorinatorcartridge if said chlorinator cartridge is not authenticated.

In another embodiment, a method for controlling a chlorinator isprovided. The method includes the steps of establishing a communicationslink between a chlorinator and a controller; retrieving anauthentication key from a non-volatile memory of a chlorinator cartridgeremovably positioned within said chlorinator; transmitting theauthentication key from said chlorinator to said controller; processingthe authentication key at the controller to determine whether thechlorinator cartridge is authenticated; and operating the chlorinatorusing the controller if the cartridge is authenticated by thecontroller.

In another embodiment, a method for diagnosing an error or a malfunctionassociated with pool or spa equipment is provided. The method includesthe steps of displaying at a computer system a graphical user interfacereplicating at least one control panel of a piece of pool or spaequipment; allowing a user to replicate a control panel conditionassociated with the piece of pool or spa equipment using the graphicaluser interface; processing the replicated control panel condition usinga diagnostic software engine to formulate a solution to the error or themalfunction; and conveying the solution to the error or the malfunctionto the user using the computer system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing features of the invention will be apparent from thefollowing Detailed Description, taken in connection with theaccompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the controller and chlorinator of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the controller of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 3-4 are partial front views of the controller of the presentdisclosure, showing the control panel of the controller in greaterdetail;

FIG. 5 is perspective view of the replaceable cell cartridge of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating electrical and softwarecomponents of the controller of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating electrical and softwarecomponents of the cell cartridge of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating non-volatile memory of the cellcartridge of the present disclosure, and sample parameters capable ofbeing stored in the non-volatile memory;

FIG. 9 is flowchart showing processing steps according to the presentdisclosure for communication with the cell cartridge by the controller,as well as authentication of the cell cartridge and calibration of thecell;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing processing steps according to the presentdisclosure for storing information in non-volatile memory of the cellcartridge relating to run times;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing processing steps according to the presentdisclosure for reading run time information from non-volatile memory ofthe cell cartridge, determining whether the run time exceeds athreshold, and indicating same to a user;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing steps according to the presentdisclosure for storing sensed information in memory of the cellcartridge and transmitting such information to the controller; and

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a system according to the presentdisclosure for remotely diagnosing errors and/or malfunctions associatedwith pool/spa equipment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for controllingchlorinators, as discussed in detail below in connection with FIGS.1-13.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a controller 20 and a chlorinator 10 ofthe present disclosure, interconnected by a cable 30. The chlorinator 10includes a casing 12, a transparent or translucent body 14, a screw cap17, a first compression nut 18 a, and a second compression nut 18 b. Thenuts 18 a, 18 b permit connection of a first pipe 19 a and a second pipe19 b (such pipes forming part of the overall piping of a pool/spaequipment installation) to the chlorinator 10. The body 14 houses achlorinator cartridge (or cell, both terms being used interchangeablyherein) 60 (see FIG. 5), discussed in greater detail below. The cable 30extends from the controller 20 and connects to a cartridge lid 16 thatcouples to the chlorinator cartridge 60, both electrically andmechanically. The cable 30 extends from the exterior of the cartridgelid 16 to the interior, and by way of a plug, provides power andelectrical communication between the controller 20 and the chlorinatorcartridge 60. The cable 30 is sealed to the lid 16 so that no water(e.g., pool/spa water or rain water) can enter the chlorinator 10 anddamage the internal circuitry. The cartridge lid 16 is sealingly securedto the chlorinator cartridge 60. The water-tight connection created bythe screw cap 17 restricts any water from entering the chlorinator 10.It is noted that communication between the chlorinator 10 and thecontroller 20 could also be provided by way of a wireless connection inplace of the cable 30.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the controller 20. The controller 20includes a front housing portion 22 having a movable cover 24, and arear housing portion 25 attached to the front housing portion 22. Anoptional mounting plate 26 could be provided and attached to the rearhousing portion 25 to allow mounting of the controller 20 to a surface(e.g., on a wall of a building, at a location near a pool/spa equipmentpad, etc.). A transformer 27 provides electrical power to a printedcircuit board 33 containing circuitry of the controller 20, as well asto the chlorinator 10. The transformer 27 steps incoming power at ahousehold voltage level (e.g. 120 volts) to a lower voltage level foruse by the controller 20 and the chlorinator 10. Two bridge rectifiers28 convert alternating current (AC) provided by the transformer 27 todirect current (DC) for use by the controller 20 and chlorinator 10. Thetransformer 27, rectifiers 28, and printed circuit board 33 are housedby the housing portions 22 and 25. The housing portions 22 and 25 couldbe secured together by way of screws (as shown in FIG. 2), snap fit,fasteners, adhesive, etc. A power cord 31 (which can be plugged into ahousehold AC outlet) provides power to the transformer 27. Both thecable 30 and the power cord 31 could be secured to the housing using aclamp 32 and associated fasteners. The cover 24 can be rotated downward(i.e., away from the housing portion 22) so as to provide access to acontrol panel 40. As discussed in greater detail below in connectionwith FIGS. 3-4, the control panel 40 includes lights (e.g.,light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or incandescent lights) which indicatevarious operational, status, and diagnostic information relating to thechlorinator 10 and the cell 60, as well as buttons and/or a control knobfor allowing a user to control operation of the chlorinator 10. It isnoted that the housing portions 22, 25 could be made from plastic orother suitable material. A rear plate 29 is attached to the rear housingportion 25.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing one embodiment of the control panel 40 ofthe controller 20. The panel 40 includes a plurality of status lights(e.g., LEDs) 42 a-42 f which indicate various conditions of thechlorinator 10, such as inadequate water flow through the chlorinator(light 42 a), low cell life left (light 42 b), a problem with thechlorinator and/or controller (light 42 c), stand by state (light 42 d),chlorine generation state (light 42 e), and super chlorination state(light 42 f). The plurality of status lights 42 a-42 f may alternativelybe a single or a plurality of LCD screens or other display technologythat is known. The inadequate water flow light 42 a is illuminated whenthe controller 20 detects (via a flow sensor within the chlorinator 10)that inadequate or no water is flowing through the chlorinator 10. Insuch circumstances, the controller 20 halts operation of the chlorinator10, thereby preventing damage to the chlorinator 10 and/or othercomponents of a pool/spa system. The cell life low light 42 b isilluminated when the controller 20 detects that the chlorinator cell 60is approaching or is at the end of its useful life, thereby indicatingthat the cell should be replaced. The problem detected light 42 c isilluminated when the controller 20 detects a malfunction/fault of thecell 60 and/or other components of the system. The standing by light 42d indicates that the chlorinator 10 is not operating but is in normalcondition. The generating chlorine light 42 e is illuminated by thecontroller 20 when the chlorinator 10 is generating chlorine. The superchlorinating light 42 f is illuminated when the chlorinator isgenerating elevated levels of chlorine for a short period of time (e.g.,to quickly boost the level of chlorine in a pool or spa). The panel 40also includes a plurality of lights 44 a-44 j which indicate chlorineoutput levels. A plurality of membrane switches 46 a-46 c are providedfor controlling the chlorine output level—by pressing the switch 46 a,the user can decrease the level of chlorine generated by the chlorinator10 (causing fewer of the lights 44 a-44 j to illuminate). Conversely, bypressing the switch 46 b, the user can increase the level of chlorinegenerated by the chlorinator 10 (causing a greater number of the lights44 a-44 j to illuminate). By pressing the switch 46 c, the user caninitiate super chlorination mode, which causes the chlorinator 10 togenerate an increased level of chlorine for a pre-defined period of time(also causing the light 42 f to illuminate during this time period). Itis noted that the lights 42 a-42 f and 44 a-44 j could be differentcolors, and that they could flash to indicate different parameters orconditions to the user (e.g., a certain flashing sequence could beinitiated to indicate a problem with a particular component).

FIG. 4 is a partial front view of another embodiment of the controlpanel (indicated at 50) according to the present disclosure. In thisembodiment, the control panel includes status lights (e.g., LEDs) 52a-52 f as well as a control knob 54 and a button 56. The light 52 aindicates whether sensed water temperature is too hot or too cold forchlorination. The light 52 b indicates whether the usable remaining time(life) of the cell cartridge 60 is low. The light 52 c indicates whethera problem has been detected with the cell cartridge 60 or anothercomponent. The light 52 d indicates whether the system is in a standbycondition (i.e., operating normally, but not currently generatingchlorine). The light 52 e indicates whether the chlorinator 10 isgenerating chlorine. The light 52 f indicates whether the chlorinator 10is in super chlorination mode. As with the embodiment shown in FIG. 3,the lights 52 a-52 f could be different colors, and could flash toindicate conditions/malfunctions to the user. The knob 54 can be rotatedto increase or decrease chlorine output of the chlorinator 10. Thebutton 56, when depressed, causes the chlorinator 10 to temporarilyoutput an elevated level of chlorine (super chlorination).

FIG. 5 is perspective view of the replaceable cell cartridge 60 of thepresent disclosure. The cartridge 60 can be installed by a user into thechlorinator 10, and replaced as necessary. The cartridge 60 includes acartridge body 61, a cartridge cap 62, a plurality of slots 63 alignedwith a plurality of electrically-charged plates (blades) positionedwithin the cartridge 60, a cover 64 and an o-ring 65. The cover 64includes a locking key 66 and an electrical connector 67 having aplurality of connector pins 68. The electrical connector 67 is shaped sothat it is compatible with the shape of a plug (not shown) formed in thelid 16, so that only compatible cartridges can be used with thechlorinator 10. The plurality of connector pins 68 extend through thecover 64 and are in electrical connection with the electrical componentsof the cartridge 60. As discussed in greater detail below in connectionwith FIG. 7, the cartridge 60 includes an on-board processor andassociated non-volatile memory for storing parameters relating to thecartridge 60, as well as sensors for sensing various conditions relatingto water being chlorinated. The on-board processor also includesfirmware for authenticating the cartridge 60 with the controller 20, sothat only authorized cartridges are operable with the controller 20.When the cartridge 60 is inserted into the chlorinator 10, the o-ring 65creates a seal between the cartridge 60 and the chlorinator 10 so thatno water escapes from the chlorinator 10. The o-ring 65 mayalternatively be a flat gasket or other sealing agent, or replaced byany other known sealing methodology. The cartridge 60 can be removedfrom the chlorinator 10 as necessary by a user and replaced.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram, indicated generally at 70, illustratingelectrical and software components of the controller 20 of the presentdisclosure. The controller 20 includes a power supply 72, a controllersubsystem 77, a cell (cartridge) interface 86, and driver subsystem 90.The power supply 72 provides power to the controller subsystem 77, thecell interface 86, and the driver subsystem 90, as well as power to thechlorinator 10. The power supply 72 includes an alternating current (AC)to direct current (DC) converter 74 which coverts household AC power 73(supplied by the power cable 31 shown in FIG. 2) to DC power, and a DCto DC converter 76 which converts DC output of the converter 74 todirect current of a different voltage level for subsequent use by thecontrol subsystem 77.

The control subsystem 77 includes a controller integrated circuit (IC)78 having a number of functional components including relay controllogic 79, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 80, a serial (RS-232)communications controller 82, a serial communications module 83, andinterrupt ports 84. The controller IC 78 could be the PIC16F1938microcontroller manufactured by MICROCHIP, INC., or any other suitableequivalent. The control subsystem 77 also includes non-volatile,computer-readable memory which stores the control processes disclosedherein in the form of computer-readable instructions capable of beingexecuted by the controller IC 78. Such instructions could be accessedfrom the memory by way of a software program header 85. The memory couldbe separate from the controller IC 78 (i.e., on another IC chip) or itcould be provided on the controller IC 78. The control subsystem 77 alsoincludes sensor logic 81 for determining the state of one or more powerrelays of the cell interface 86.

The driver subsystem 90 permits communication between the buttons of thecontrol panel (keypad) 40 or 50, and includes a serial-to-parallelconverter 91, a debounce circuit 93, and a connector 92 for connectionwith the control panel 40 or 50. The driver 90 receives control commandsentered by a user at the control panel 40 or 50, processes same, andtransmits the commands to the controller subsystem 77 for executionthereby. The control subsystem 77 also controls the various statuslights of the control panel 40 or 50.

The cell interface 86 includes cell power relays 87, a connector 88, anda communications (RS-232) interface 89. The cell power relays 87selectively control power delivered to the cell (cartridge) 60 of thechlorinator 10, and are controlled by the relay control logic 79 of thecontroller IC 78. The communications interface 89 permits bidirectionalserial data communications between the controller subsystem 77 and theon-board processor of the cartridge 60. The connector 88 mates with theport 67 and has a shape that matches the port 67.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram, indicated generally at 94, illustratingelectrical and software components of the cell (cartridge) 60 of thepresent disclosure. The connector 67 is in electrical communication witha DC-to-DC converter 95 which, for example, converts 24 volts DC currentsupplied to the cartridge 60 by the controller 20 to a lower voltagelevel of 5 volts. A communications transceiver (RS-232) 96 is providedin the cartridge 60 and permits bidirectional serial data communicationsbetween the cartridge 60 and the controller 20. The cartridge 60 alsoincludes a controller IC 97 in communication with one or more sensorssuch as a temperature sensor 98 a for measuring water temperature and/ora flow switch 98 b for sensing water flow. The controller 97 obtainssensed parameters from the sensors 98 a, 98 b and, upon receiving arequest from the controller 20, transmits the sensed parameters to thecontroller 20 using the communications transceiver 96. A non-volatilememory 100 (see FIG. 8) associated with, or forming part of, thecontroller IC 97 stores parameters associated with the cartridge 60 aswell as an authentication/encryption key that can be used toauthenticate the cartridge 60 with the controller 20 and/or allow forencrypted communications therebetween. Advantageously, authenticationpermits operation of only authorized cartridges with the controller 20.Control/program logic executed by the cartridge 60, in the form ofcomputer-readable instructions, could be stored in the on-boardnon-volatile memory 100, and could be accessed by the controller IC 97by way of a software program header 99. It is noted that other sensorscould be provided on-board the cartridge 60, such as a pH sensor, an ORPsensor, and/or other sensors, and the controller IC 97 could beconfigured to obtain sensed levels from such sensors and transmit sameto the controller 20. The on-board controller IC 97 could be thePIC16F1823 microcontroller manufactured by MICROCHIP, INC., or any othersuitable equivalent.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating non-volatile memory 100 of the cellcartridge 60 of the present disclosure, and sample parameters 102capable of being stored in the non-volatile memory 100. Parameters 102which could be stored in the non-volatile memory 100 include, but arenot limited to, minimum/maximum electrical parameters associated withthe cartridge 60, cell coating and/or life expectancy (i.e., informationrelating to materials used to coat the plates/blades of the cell, aswell as total expected operational lifetime of the cell), thermaloperating parameters, salinity operating parameters, etc. The parameters102 could be loaded into the memory 100 by a manufacturer of thecartridge 60, and/or they could be updated during use of the cartridge60 (e.g., by the controller 20).

FIG. 9 is flowchart showing processing steps according to the presentdisclosure, indicated generally at 110, for communication with the cellcartridge 60 by the controller 20, as well as authentication of the cellcartridge 60 and calibration of the cell 60. Beginning in step 112, acommunications “handshake” is exchanged between the cell 60 and thecontroller 20, to establish a communications link between the twocomponents. In step 114, the cell 60 transmits an authentication key tothe controller 20. Any suitable authentication technique could be used,such as the AES encryption standard or any other suitable equivalent.The transmitted authentication key is processed by the controller 20,and a determination is made in step 116 as to whether the cell 60 isauthenticated. If not, step 118 occurs, wherein the controller 20 entersan error state and operation of the cell 60 is not permitted. Otherwise,if the cell 60 is authenticated, step 120 occurs, wherein the controller20 determines the type of the cell 60. For example, by communicatingwith the cell 60, the controller could determine whether the cell 60 isan extended-life cell or a cell having a reduced lifetime. In step 122,once the cell type has been determined, the controller 20 executes acalibration process for calibrating operation of the cell 60. To do so,in step 124, the controller 20 reads one or more parameters from thecell 60. It is noted that the cell 60 could be authenticated upon thefirst communication between the controller 20 and the cell 60 aftersystem power-up, periodically, or every time a communication occursbetween the controller 20 and the cell 60.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing processing steps, indicated generally at130, according to the present disclosure for storing information innon-volatile memory 100 of the cell cartridge 60 relating to run times,i.e., the amount of time that the cell 60 has been operated. In step132, the controller IC 97 of the cell 60 determines the polarity beingapplied to the cell 60. In step 134, a determination is made as towhether the polarity applied to the cell 60 is forward polarity. If so,steps 136 and 138 occur, wherein the controller IC 97 determines theforward run time and stores the forward run time in the non-volatilememory 100 of the cell 60. Otherwise, step 140 occurs, wherein thecontroller 97 determines whether the polarity applied to the cell 60 isreverse polarity. If so, steps 142 and 144 occur, wherein the controllerIC 97 determines the reverse run time and stores the reverse run time inthe non-volatile memory 100 of the cell 60. In step 146, a determinationis made as to whether to update the run time information for the cell60. If so, control returns to step 132; otherwise, processing ends. Bystoring forward and reverse run time information in the non-volatilememory 100 of the cell 60, it is possible to track the total amount oftime that the cell 60 has been in operation (i.e., by adding the forwardand reverse run times), as well as the number of times polarity has beenreversed. This information is useful for identifying the total amount oflife left in the cell 60, as well as for other diagnostic purposes.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing processing steps according to the presentdisclosure, indicated generally at 150, for reading run time informationfrom non-volatile memory 100 of the cell cartridge 60, determiningwhether the run time exceeds a threshold, and indicating same to a user.In step 152, run times (both forward and reverse run time) are read fromthe non-volatile memory 100 of the cell 60, and total run time iscalculated. Then, in step 154, a determination is made as to whether thetotal run time exceeds a pre-defined threshold. If so, step 156 occurs,wherein the controller 20 illuminates an indicator light on the panel40, i.e., the cell life low lights 42 b or 52 b shown in FIGS. 3-4. Theilluminated light indicates to the user that the cell 60 should bereplaced with a new cell. Otherwise, step 158 occurs, wherein adetermination is made as to whether to update the run time information.If so, control returns to step 152; otherwise, processing ends.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing steps according to the presentdisclosure, indicated generally at 160, for storing sensed informationin memory 100 of the cell cartridge 60 and transmitting such informationto the controller 20. In step 162, the controller IC 97 of the cell 60obtains measurements from one or more of the sensors 98 a, 98 b,including, but not limited to, temperature, flow rate, pH, ORP, etc.Then, in step 164, the controller IC 97 stores the obtained measurementsin the non-volatile memory 100. In step 166, the controller IC 97monitors for an incoming request for data, i.e., a request generated bythe controller 20 and transmitted to the cell 60. Then, in step 168, adetermination is made as to whether a request has been received. If so,steps 172 and 174 occur, wherein the sensed measurements (parameters)stored in the non-volatile memory 100 are converted into communicationsprotocol format and the converted information is transmitted from thecell 60 to the control unit 20 via the cable 30 or wirelessly.Otherwise, step 170 occurs, wherein a determination is made as towhether to update the measurements/parameters. If so, control returnsback to step 162; otherwise, processing ends. It is noted that a widevariety of measurements/parameters could be obtained and stored innon-volatile memory 100 of the cell 60, including, but not limited to,chlorine parts per million (ppm), ORP, pH, salt ppm, turbidity, calciumhardness, and other parameters, and such parameters could be transmittedto the controller 20 for processing thereby.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a system according to the presentdisclosure, indicated generally at 200, for remotely diagnosing errorsand/or malfunctions associated with pool/spa equipment. The system 200includes a diagnostic server 202 which executes a diagnostic softwareengine 204, in communication with a local application executing on acomputer system 208. Communication could be by way of the Internet 206,a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a cellularnetwork, etc. The computer system 208 could be a personal computer,tablet computer, cellular phone, smart phone, etc., and the localapplication executed by the computer system 208 generates a diagnosticgraphical user interface (GUI) display 210 that is displayed on adisplay of the computer system 208. The GUI 210 could replicate one ormore control panels of the pool/spa equipment 216, e.g., the GUI 210could appear identical to the control panels 40 or 50 shown in FIGS.3-4. When a malfunction of the equipment 216 occurs, the user canreplicate the appearance of indicator lights appearing on the controlpanel(s) of the equipment 216 using the GUI 210. For example, if thecontrol panel 40 has three lights flashing intermittently, by using amouse and clicking on the replicated control panel appearing on the GUI210, the user can replicate the same three flashing lights on the GUI210. Once the replicated control panel condition is created in the GUI210, the local application transmits same to the diagnostic server 202,for processing by the diagnostic software engine 204. Based upon thereplicated conditions generated in the GUI 210, the diagnostic softwareengine 204 formulates a solution to the problem, and transmits thesolution to the local computer 208 for subsequent display to the user.An explanation of the error condition could also be provided to theuser. Of course, the functionality provided by diagnostic softwareengine 204 could be provided within the local computer system 208, suchthat communication with the diagnostic server 202 is not necessary.

It is noted that the local computer system 208 could also include amicrophone 212 and a camera 214, both or either of which could be usedto obtain information about the malfunctioning equipment 216. Thus, forexample, if a pump is making a high-pitched whining noise, the usercould record the sound using the microphone 212 and transmit therecorded sound to the diagnostic server 202 using the local application,whereupon the recorded sound is processed by the software engine 204(e.g., the recorded sound is compared to a database of sounds made bypumps which are indicative of various conditions) and a solution to theproblem is generated and transmitted back to the local computer system208 for display to the user. Also, for example, a picture of the currentoperating conditions of the equipment 216 could be taken using thecamera 214, and transmitted to the diagnostic server 202. Using imageprocessing, the software engine 204 could analyze the picture todetermine the error condition, and a solution could be generated andtransmitted to the local computer system 208 for display to the user.

It is noted that an entirely local solution could be provided such thatthe server 202 is not needed. In such circumstances, the functionalityof the diagnostic software engine 204 could be provided within theapplication executing on the local computer system 208. Moreover, theGUI 210 could include a three-dimensional model of the user's pool/spa,and the user could re-create the present configuration of the pool/spaand condition of associated equipment using the model. For example, theuser can “drag-and-drop” representations of items such as a poolskimmer, main drain, lights, stairs, and other pool features into themodel. Once the model is created, an algorithm (executing locally on thelocal computer system 208, or remotely on the diagnostic server 202) cananalyze the model and recommend a specific manner in which to operatepool/spa equipment in order to obtain better results (e.g., it couldrecommend better ways of operating a pool/spa cleaner (or of programmingsame) based upon the model created by the user). Further, the algorithmcould produce a new cleaning program based upon the model, which couldbe downloaded to a robotic pool cleaner (e.g., via USB, wirelessly,etc.).

Although the foregoing disclosure was discussed in connection with poolsand spas, it is to be understood that the systems and methods disclosedherein could be utilized in connection with any body of water wheresanitization is necessary, e.g., fountains, ponds, water features, etc.

Having thus described the invention in detail, it is to be understoodthat the foregoing description is not intended to limit the spirit orscope thereof. What is desired to be protected is set forth in thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for controlling a chlorinator,comprising: a chlorinator including a body and a chlorinator cartridge,said chlorinator cartridge including a cartridge body, a cartridge caphaving a connector, a plurality of electrolytic plates within thecartridge body, a memory, and a processor in electrical communicationwith the plurality of plates and the memory of the cartridge; acontroller in electrical communication with said chlorinator, saidcontroller including a control panel for allowing a user to controloperation of said chlorinator, wherein said processor of saidchlorinator cartridge communicates with said controller to authenticatesaid chlorinator cartridge, said controller prohibiting operation ofsaid chlorinator cartridge if said chlorinator cartridge is notauthenticated; and wherein said cartridge houses said memory, saidprocessor, and said plates.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein saidmemory stores an authentication key, said processor transmitting saidauthentication key to said controller for subsequent authentication ofsaid chlorinator cartridge.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein saidmemory stores one or more parameters relating to said chlorinatorcartridge.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein said one or more parameterscomprises one or more of a minimum electrical parameter associated withsaid chlorinator cartridge, a maximum electrical parameter associatedwith said chlorinator cartridge, a cell coating condition, a lifeexpectancy associated with said chlorinator cartridge, a thermaloperating parameter associated with operation of the chlorinatorcartridge, a running time associated with said chlorinator cartridge, ora salinity operating parameter.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein saidprocessor transmits said one or more parameters to said controller forsubsequent processing by said controller.
 6. The system of claim 1,wherein said control panel further comprises means for indicatingoperational, status, or diagnostic information relating to thechlorinator.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein said control panelfurther comprises a control knob for controlling chlorination output ofthe chlorinator.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein said control panelfurther comprises a plurality of switches for controlling operation ofthe chlorinator.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein said controllerfurther comprises a movable cover for covering the control panel. 10.The system of claim 1, wherein the control panel is mountable at alocation remote from said chlorinator.
 11. The system of claim 1,wherein said chlorinator cartridge further comprises at least one sensorfor sensing a condition relating to water being chlorinated by thechlorinator.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one sensorcomprises at least one of a flow switch, a temperature sensor, a pHsensor, or an ORP sensor.
 13. The system of claim 1, wherein saidchlorinator cartridge further comprises a shaped electrical connectorfor electrical connection to a cable interconnecting said chlorinatorwith said controller.
 14. A method for controlling a chlorinator,comprising the steps of: establishing a communications link between achlorinator and a controller, the chlorinator including a body and achlorinator cartridge, said chlorinator cartridge including a cartridgebody, a cartridge cap having a connector, a plurality of electrolyticplates within the cartridge body, a memory, and a processor inelectrical communication with the plurality of plates and the memory ofthe cartridge, wherein said cartridge houses said memory, saidprocessor, and said plates; retrieving an authentication key from thememory of the chlorinator cartridge; transmitting the authentication keyfrom said chlorinator to said controller; processing the authenticationkey at the controller to determine whether the chlorinator cartridge isauthenticated; and operating the chlorinator using the controller if thecartridge is authenticated by the controller.
 15. The method of claim14, further comprising prohibiting operation of the chlorinator if thecartridge is not authenticated by the controller.
 16. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising accessing one or more parameters stored insaid memory of said chlorinator cartridge using said controller.
 17. Themethod of claim 16, further comprising adjusting operation of saidchlorinator or said controller based upon said one or more parameters.18. The method of claim 14, further comprising reading run timeinformation from said memory of said chlorinator cartridge using saidcontroller and determining whether said run time exceeds a threshold.19. The method of claim 18, further comprising indicating to a user whois using the controller that said chlorinator cartridge should bereplaced if said run time exceeds said threshold.
 20. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising sensing a condition relating to water beingchlorinated by the chlorinator using a sensor of the chlorinatorcartridge, the condition relating to at least one of flow rate,temperature, pH, or ORP.
 21. A cartridge for a chlorinator, comprising:a cartridge body; a cartridge cap having a connector; a plurality ofelectrolytic plates within the cartridge body; a memory; and a processorin electrical communication with the plurality of plates and the memoryof the cartridge; wherein the processor communicates with a controllerto authenticate the cartridge, the controller prohibiting operation ofthe cartridge if the cartridge is not authenticated.
 22. The cartridgeof claim 21, wherein the memory stores an authentication key, theprocessor transmitting the authentication key to the controller forsubsequent authentication of the cartridge.
 23. The cartridge of claim22, wherein the memory stores one or more parameters relating to thecartridge.
 24. The cartridge of claim 23, wherein said one or moreparameters comprises one or more of a minimum electrical parameterassociated with the cartridge, a maximum electrical parameter associatedwith the cartridge, a cell coating condition, a life expectancyassociated with the cartridge, a thermal operating parameter associatedwith operation of the cartridge, a running time associated with thecartridge, or a salinity operating parameter.
 25. The cartridge of claim23, wherein the processor transmits the one or more parameters to thecontroller for subsequent processing by the controller.
 26. Thecartridge of claim 23, further comprising at least one sensor forsensing a condition relating to water being chlorinated by thecartridge.
 27. The cartridge of claim 26, wherein the at least onesensor comprises a flow switch, a temperature sensor, a pH sensor or anORP sensor.
 28. The cartridge of claim 27, further comprising a shapedelectrical connector for electrical connection to a cableinterconnecting the cartridge with the controller.
 29. A cartridge for achlorinator, comprising: a cartridge body; a cartridge cap having aconnector; a plurality of electrolytic plates within the cartridge body;and at least one sensor for sensing a condition relating to water beingchlorinated by the cartridge.
 30. The cartridge of claim 29, wherein theat least one sensor comprises at least one of a flow switch, atemperature sensor, a pH sensor, or an ORP sensor.